Wayfinders at Fresno State

Kremen School of Education & Human Development

Welcome to Wayfinders!

Wayfinders is a 2-year non-degree independent living certificate program for young
adults (aged 18-28) with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Wayfinders students experience university life and increase their independence by
taking classes at Fresno State, living in student apartments, and participating in
work experience internships both on and off-campus.

Wayfinders students receive support in the following major areas (domains).

Wayfinders students receive individualized supports by Residential staff and coaches
to learn the skills necessary to successfully maintain a tidy apartment, set and maintain
a budget, plan and prepare their meals, successfully shop for groceries, and pay their
rent.

A key component of Wayfinders is developing students into competent employees. Students
are provided work experience and classroom opportunities to learn skills in preparation
for competitive integrated employment.

Research findings revealed that students with intellectual disabilities who have some
type of post-secondary education were more likely to obtain employment, require fewer
supports and have increased self-esteem.

Wayfinders students participate in a variety of activities during their free time.
Students are given the opportunity to choose the activities they would like to participate
in and are supported and encouraged to try new experiences.

Wayfinders students are supported in ensuring their transition into their chosen community
is structured and goal-oriented enabling the student to have a productive and fulfilling
life in the setting of their choosing.

Case managers provide direct support in order to promote student independence and
self-efficacy. The goal of Case Management is to guide students towards utilizing
natural supports and other resources to fulfill their activities of daily living.

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